Advice for new salt person. Tanks about 8 weeks old.

[rockhead51]

I'm a noob myself (tank is 6 months old), so take it for what it's worth. But from one noob to another- slow down. If you get offended at some of the really "in your face" type comments, shake it off; these folks have been around a while and at least some have seen and done everything you will encounter.
As to your particular situation, you have a lot going on all at once, so you may never figure out what (or all of the several "whats" that) went wrong.
My advice is start tracking everything you do (either a log/binder or get an app- I use Aquarium Note), let everything settle down, and then only make one change at a time (so you can assess impact over at least a week or two).
It sucks that you lost a bunch of fish, but if you can learn from t, then it isn't all for nothing.

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[justjered]

I'd go out on a limb and say this could have been your issue. Look for the stick "death in bags" im on my phone so can't search it as easy.

I read that and after the fact think I've always done quick acclimation in fresh tanks and might just do that in salt too. Everything that is alive a long time had a short temp acclimation only.


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[exsequor]

I only do 15-30 minute acclimation and have good success with fish

 

[Dale_M]

If you set up a QT, it should be kept VERY simple.
20 g is good, with a simple sponge filter, heater and powerhead for water movement.
No sand, just a few pieces of PVC, like elbows and T's to give hiding places.
Water changes often is what will keep the ammonia and nitrite in check.
Quality test kits intended for Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate are very important!
Also, check into the Tank Transfer Method (TTM). Its another way of doing QT.

 

[rockhead51]

As far as acclimatization goes, I float the bag unopened for about 5 minutes. Then I open it and clip it to the side of my tank. I take out about 1/8 of the water and replace with tank water. About 2 min later I take out another eighth or so, and then start adding a syringe of tank water every couple minutes. After 15 minutes, I use a net to transfer the fish/invert over...

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[Stolireef]

After 15 minutes, I use a net to transfer the fish/invert over...

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This is just a suggestion and by no means a criticism but using a net can be hard on the fish. This is particularly true for tangs and other 'spikey' fish. They tend to get stuck on the net and can rub off their slime coat.

A good option for smaller fish is to get one of those big cups that are used for beer at parties (I'd suggest not reusing the party cups). Pour the fish into a large metal bowl and then scoop it out with the cup.

 

[bcb577]

Ok some folks that have been doing this for awhile and want to help the OP with advice that is a good thing. As I have noticed of late is a kinda piling on when folks post for advice. Yes I agree with alot of the advice I see posted, but cut this person some slack, I'm growing tired of all the "your killing fish" stuff. Seems to come off as self righteous. Lets face it we EAT fish. We also put fish that normally live in an ocean in a glass box so we can look at them. I know we should be good stewards of the pets we choose to keep, however some of these posts seem to go overboard. The OP just wanted some advice on a new Saltwater setup, doesn't need to be pounced on by "THE PROTECTORS OF THE FISH" club. Getting off soapbox now

+1 on the pile up statement.sometimes it's not what you say,but rather how you say it,this has happened to me on here recently so I know what it feels like,so everyone please give advise constructively without the superiority complex,not saying this happened in this instance,and good advise was given,but please be kind to people as many come here for info that many lfs don't give.it sucks when you post a question,and people make you feel very little.